Seller's guide ยท Updated December 2025
Real Estate Agent Fees & Commission Rates in Australia
Most Australian agents charge 1.6% to 3% of the sale price plus marketing costs, but rates vary by state, suburb and how well you negotiate. This guide explains what you will pay, what it covers, and how to compare agents on value rather than just the cheapest rate.
Average agent commission by state
Indicative ranges for residential sales. Percentages are of the final sale price and typically exclude GST and marketing.
| State / Territory | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | 1.8% - 2.5% | Sydney metro often 1.8-2.2%; regional NSW higher |
| Victoria (VIC) | 1.6% - 2.5% | Melbourne metro commonly 1.6-2.2% |
| Queensland (QLD) | 2.5% - 3.0% | Brisbane around 2.5%; regional QLD up to 3%+ |
| Western Australia (WA) | 2.2% - 3.0% | Perth metro typically 2.2-2.8% |
| South Australia (SA) | 2.0% - 2.8% | Adelaide metro around 2-2.5% |
| Tasmania (TAS) | 2.5% - 3.5% | Lower prices push percentages higher |
| ACT | 2.0% - 2.5% | Canberra fairly consistent around 2.2% |
| Northern Territory (NT) | 2.5% - 4.0% | Darwin and regional rates vary widely |
Example: on a $850,000 sale, 2.2% commission is $18,700 before GST and marketing.
Work out your likely selling costs
Agent fee calculator
Estimates only, excluding GST unless your agent's quote includes it. Conveyancing and styling not included.
Other costs to budget for
Marketing and advertising
$1,000 - $10,000+
Photography, floor plans, online listings, signboards, print. Usually paid upfront or at settlement.
Auctioneer fee
$400 - $1,000
Only if you sell by auction. Sometimes included in the agent's package.
Conveyancing / solicitor
$800 - $2,500
Not an agent fee, but part of your total selling costs.
Styling and staging
$2,000 - $8,000
Optional. Furniture hire for 4-6 weeks to present the home at its best.
Pre-sale repairs and cleaning
Varies
Small fixes, gardens and a professional clean can lift the sale price.
How agents structure their fees
- Flat percentage. The most common model. A fixed percentage of the final sale price, e.g. 2%.
- Tiered (incentive) commission. A base rate up to an agreed price, then a higher rate on every dollar above it. Rewards the agent for beating expectations.
- Fixed fee. A set dollar amount regardless of sale price. More common with online or low-cost agencies.
- Marketing included vs extra. Some agents bundle marketing into the commission, most charge it separately. Always ask which.
6 ways to pay less without getting a worse agent
- Compare at least 2 to 3 agents. Rates and marketing packages differ more than most sellers expect.
- Ask for a tiered commission so the agent earns more only if your sale price exceeds the target.
- Negotiate the marketing budget line by line. Premium online listings matter; glossy brochures often do not.
- Judge on net result, not the cheapest rate. A strong agent who achieves 3% more on price easily covers a slightly higher fee.
- Check recent sales in your suburb. Local track record is a better predictor than brand size.
- Read the agency agreement before signing, including the exclusive period and any early-exit fees.
Compare fees from pre-vetted agents in your suburb
We shortlist 2 to 3 licence-checked local agents so you can compare commission, marketing and recent results side by side. Free for sellers, no obligation.
Get my free agent shortlistFrequently asked questions
What is the average real estate agent commission in Australia?
Most agents charge between 1.6% and 3% of the sale price, plus marketing costs. Metro areas with higher property prices tend to sit at the lower end, while regional and lower-priced markets are often higher.
Is the commission negotiable?
Yes. Commission is not regulated in most of Australia and agents expect to negotiate, especially when they know you are comparing several agents. Tiered structures are a common compromise.
When do I pay the agent?
Commission is normally deducted from the sale proceeds at settlement. Marketing costs are often paid upfront or when the property is listed, so ask about timing.
Does GST apply to agent fees?
Yes. Quoted rates should state whether they include GST. A 2% commission excluding GST is 2.2% including GST, so always compare like for like.
Are cheaper agents worse?
Not necessarily, but the fee is only one part of the equation. The best measure is the net amount in your pocket after fees, which depends heavily on the agent's negotiation skill and local knowledge.
How can FindMeAgent help with fees?
We introduce you to 2 to 3 pre-vetted local agents so you can compare their commission, marketing packages and recent results side by side. Our service is free for sellers.
Figures are indicative industry ranges compiled from publicly reported data and are provided as general information only, not financial or legal advice. Always confirm fees in writing with your agent.